Electromyographic Neuromuscular Retraining for Rehabilitation of Patients with Shoulder Subluxation

Abstract

The objective of this clinical engineering research was to determine the efficacy of electromyographic biofeedback (BFB) in the rehabilitation of stroke patients. Eight subjects (Ss) who had suffered a cerebral vascular insult in the preceding 10–36 months and who had greatly restricted shoulder movements were selected as Ss in this study. Strength and range-of-motion (ROM) of the shoulder musculature were assessed prior to the Ss embarking on a 15-session BFB exercise training schedule lasting five weeks. At each training session, the patients were requested to initiate specific shoulder movements to trigger certain bio feedback devices. As the Ss improved, they were requested to repeat the shoulder motions with increasing intensity of effort. At the end of 15 sessions, strength and ROM were again assessed to evaluate quantitative changes in the patients' progress. Results indicated significant increases in both strength and ROM were again assessed to evaluate quantitative changes in the patients' progress. Results indicated significant increases in both strength and ROM in all patients. Increases in strength and ROM in the five specific muscle groups tested varied from 10 to 600%. These results indicate that BFB training can play an important role in the physical rehabilitation of the hemiplegic patient.